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Disassemble and Clean P-Trap — Disconnect Plumbing: Prepare for Removal

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

Replace Your Garbage Disposal: Step-by-Step Guide · Step 2 of 5

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In this video

Place a bucket under the sink's P-trap. Carefully unscrew the slip nuts connecting the P-trap and the drain arm from the garbage disposal. Remove the pipes and empty the contents into the bucket. Manually pull out any visible grease and debris from the pipes and the drain opening in the wall.

Goal: Manually remove the bulk of the clog from the pipes

Used in this video

  • Bucket (brand: Not specified, Tool Type: Bucket, Bucket Capacity: Medium) — Catching water and debris from the disassembled pipes.
  • Shop Vacuum (brand: Not specified, Tool Type: Shop Vacuum, Power Source: Electric) · optional — Sucking out remaining debris from the drain line in the wall.
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FAQs

Is replacing a garbage disposal truly a beginner project, and what might make it take longer than 3 hours?

While rated beginner, unexpected issues like rusted pipes or a stubborn old mounting ring can extend the time significantly. Having the right tools, a clear workspace, and pre-reading your new disposal's manual will help keep it on schedule. If you encounter major plumbing issues or complex electrical wiring, consider calling a professional.

Beyond the listed tools, are there any other materials or tools I might need for a smooth installation, like plumber's putty?

Yes, plumber's putty is essential for creating a watertight seal for the new sink flange. Electrical tape might be needed for secure wire connections if your new disposal requires hardwiring. A good flashlight will also be invaluable for working in the dark cabinet under the sink.

What crucial safety precautions, beyond turning off the power, should I absolutely follow during this replacement?

Always double-check the power is off at the disposal outlet and the breaker before starting. Wear safety glasses to protect from debris and sturdy gloves, especially when handling tools or old components. Be mindful of the disposal's weight; it can be heavier than expected, so support it properly to avoid injury.

My new disposal is leaking after installation. What are the most common leak points I should check first?

The most common leak points are the mounting ring connection to the sink flange, the discharge pipe connection to the disposal, and the dishwasher inlet plug (if applicable). Ensure all bolts are tightened securely, the plumber's putty has a good seal, and hose clamps are firm. Avoid overtightening plastic fittings, as they can crack.

Transcript
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Might have to pull the old P-trap. I gotta go get some gloves. Something's broken loose, so. All right. We're just gonna take the P-trap off. See what's in here. This thing's deep. Sweet baby Jesus said, better not be a turd. You have to go and grab a smaller bucket. So now I'm gonna get a look at the money shop. Always cut the bottom off of chlorine buckets. A lot of guys ask where I get these from. I just cut the bottom off chlorine buckets. You know what, thank you guys for hanging in there with me during this slow season. Plus everybody's home, man. It's like 90% of people are home. And then 10% actually leave the cave and go somewhere. They're in a living. It used to be the other way around. 90% of people would leave. And then only 10% would be home all day. So it just makes it difficult to record. All right. That dude has clean as possible. What is that? I think we got grease. It's like hard waxing grease. There's no clean way of doing this. Places already are wrecked anyway. I think we got grease up in here. Oh, this is clogged as well. Yep, it goes all the way back. My goodness. Let me go get my shot back see if I can suck all this out. I mean, it's pretty soft up in there. So hopefully it'll suck out whatever it is. I think I got that. I couldn't get that, so I might just replace the garbage disposal.

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